Difference between Linux distributions

A Linux distribution is a customized version of Linux. It is a collection of packages and applications grouped and pre-installed on a standard Linux to meet specific requirements. All Linux distributions with less or more customization use the same Linux kernel. Since all Linux distributions use the same kernel at their core, no matter which distribution you use, you will get all the features and functions of the standard Linux across all distributions. In other words, once you learn how to use or manage Linux from one distribution, you can use the same skills and experiences to manage and use Linux from other distributions.

Differences between Linux distributions

The first difference between various distributions is their target audiences and systems. For example, some distributions customize Linux for desktop systems, some distributions customize it for server systems, some distributions customize it for old machines, and so on. Usually, they design it for specific purposes or to provide an environment to perform particular functions.

The second difference between distributions is the process of installing and updating applications. Different distributions use various tools for application installation and management, called package management tools.

The third difference is how distributions provide support and updates. If a community of volunteers maintains a distribution, it provides all updates and support free of cost. However, if a commercial vendor provides a distribution, it charges for support and maintenance.

Derived Linux distribution

A derived Linux distribution is a distribution created using the source code of an existing Linux distribution. Linux is open-source software. The source code of a Linux distribution is freely available to all. Developers can view and use the source code of an existing Linux distribution to create their distributions. These new derivations usually have their branding and features. CentOS is a derived Linux distribution. It uses the source code of RHEL Linux.

Most popular Linux distributions

The following section lists and describes popular Linux distributions along with their features and target audiences.

Red Hat Enterprise Linux

Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) is the most popular commercially supported Linux distribution. Companies and organizations use it as a server platform due to its dedicated support services and updates. If you need a Linux distribution for a production environment, you can use this. It not only provides guaranteed support services and updates but also provides technical assistance as per requirement. It uses RPM and YUM tools for software installation and management. In July 2019, IBM acquired Red Hat Inc. (the parent company of RHEL).

CentOS Linux

CentOS Linux is a derivation of RHEL. It uses RHEL source codes without branding and artwork. If you want to use RHEL Linux without paying a subscription fee for support, CentOS is for you. When Red Hat Inc. (IBM) releases a new version of RHEL or an update of the existing version, the developer community of CentOS makes a clone copy of that release using the same source code and releases that copy under the CentOS brand name. CentOS provides a replica of RHEL Linux with community support. If you use CentOS, you will get no support from RHEL. However, you can use the CentOS community support form to get help.

Many other distributions are also derivations of RHEL, such as Scientific Linux and Oracle Linux. Unlike CentOS, these distributions are not replicas of RHEL. These distributions use RHEL's source code as the base platform to build their customized Linux.

Fedora Linux

Fedora is a RHEL-sponsored open-source project. Red Hat uses Fedora as a testing ground to test its new features. Many features introduced in Fedora usually make their way into the upcoming version of RHEL. Red Hat does not provide any support for Fedora Linux. For support, you have to rely on the community of volunteers. Fedora Linux is a good choice for instructors who provide Linux training and developers who develop software for RHEL Linux. It allows instructors and developers to learn, understand, and use new features before they become available.

SUSE Linux

After Red Hat Enterprise Linux, SUSE is the next stable and popular enterprise Linux for servers and mainframe computers. SUSE is developed and maintained by SUSE Software Solutions (Germany). Just like Red Hat Linux, you can install, test, and use SUSE Linux without paying a fee to SUSE. However, you are required to purchase a paid subscription for support and updates. SUSE Linux is suitable for enterprise-size networks.

Debian Linux

The Debian Linux is a pure community-based free Linux distro. The Debian community develops, manages, distributes, and updates it. It uses the dpkg packaging system for software installation and management. Debian Linux is a good choice if you want a completely free Linux. The Debian distribution commits to freedom, openness, and delivering what users want. Several popular Linux distributions use it as the base system. It maintains one of the largest software repositories. It contains over 59000 packages, precompiled software bundled up in a nice format for easy installation on your machine.

Ubuntu Linux

Ubuntu is a derivation of Debian Linux. Ubuntu is funded and supported by Canonical Ltd. Before Ubuntu, Linux was known as the operating system of developers or network administrators. It was not popular among desktop users. Ubuntu changed this trend by providing a Windows-like GUI environment and tools. Shortly after its launch, it became the most popular and widely used Linux distribution.

Ubuntu also offers its customized versions. These versions are known as Ubuntu flavors. The following tutorial provides detailed information about these flavors.

Ubuntu Flavors: - Types of Ubuntu

Many distributions (such as Linux Mint, elementary OS, Zorin OS, and Pop!_OS) use Ubuntu as the base system. The main difference between Ubuntu-based Linux distributions and Ubuntu flavors is that Ubuntu updates and supports its flavors. However, it does not offer support for distribution that uses it as the base system.

Gentoo Linux

Gentoo is also a community-based Linux distribution. The main feature of this distribution is that it allows us to compile the entire Linux from the source code on our computer. We can customize every option and application that suits our hardware platform and meet our requirements. It is a perfect option for a Linux developer or an advanced user who wants a fully customized Linux.

Arch Linux

Arch Linux is a lightweight and flexible distribution. This distribution contains only essential and stable versions of the software. It is a perfect option for an old system that needs a lightweight Linux distribution.

KNOPPIX Linux

KNOPPIX Linux uses Debian Linux as the base system. This distribution provides a compact and live version of Linux. You can install it on any removable device, such as CD, DVD, or USB drive. Once installed, you can run KNOPPIX Linux from the removable device. To use KNOPPIX Linux, boot the system from the removable device. When you boot a system from the removable device containing KNOPPIX Linux, it automatically detects and configures the host computer's hardware. After booting, you can use the KNOPPIX Linux as a regular operating system.

Kali Linux

Kali Linux also uses Debian Linux as the base system. Developers customized it for testing the security of the network and system. This distribution comes with pre-installed tools used for hacking, cracking, and testing networks and web applications. It is a perfect option for an ethical hacker or security tester.

Which Distribution Should You Choose?

There is no pre-defined rule for selecting a particular distribution. You can choose a distribution that meets your requirements, skills, and budget. My broad recommendation, though, is that you should choose a Red Hat-derived distribution for an enterprise-size network or a large-size network and should choose an Ubuntu-derived distribution for personal use or a small or mid-size network.